Paprika is a magical spice for health.
Health benefits
Paprika is believed to bring a wide range of health benefits, from treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis to preventing anemia and even thicker, softer and healthier hair. Not all of these supposed benefits are supported by strong scientific evidence.
Some of the health benefits attributed to pepper are related to its capsaicin content. Capsaicin is a chemical that is found in many hot peppers and gives them a pungency. Paprika made with hotter peppers, such as cayenne pepper or poblano pepper, will also contain more capsaicin.
But not all peppers contain capsaicin. For example, paprika made from red bell pepper does not contain capsaicin, because the pepper does not contain this chemical.
Capsaicin is being studied for its potential health effects. Several studies have shown that capsaicin supplementation may play a role in the treatment of obesity.
Other studies have shown that this substance can have a protective antioxidant effect on the liver in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and may be useful in the treatment of hyperglycemia, atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart hypertrophy, hypertension, etc.But the researchers also state that further research is needed to fully understand the benefits that this chemical can provide. In addition, studies primarily examine the role of capsaicin supplements, rather than the use of pepper as a seasoning.
May help reduce the risk of diseases
Carotenoids are plant compounds that are known to provide health benefits, such as protection against certain diseases, particularly certain cancers and eye diseases. Carotenoids are found in plants with bright, rich colors, such as pepper, which is used to make paprika.
In a small study involving 33 healthy volunteers, the researchers examined the effect of pepper oleoresin supplements (a mixture of pepper oil) on plasma carotenoid concentrations. The volunteers took 0, 20, or 100 mg of pepper oleoresin for twelve weeks. The researchers found that levels of carotenoids (especially beta-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin) increased with dose, and no adverse reactions were reported.
May help maintain bone health
The carotenoids in paprika can also help postmenopausal women maintain bone health. One study found that using paprika carotenoid extract can improve bone metabolism in postmenopausal women.
Nutritional value
Most recipes don't require more than a teaspoon of paprika per serving. One teaspoon of ground spice (2.3 grams) contains approximately 6.5 calories, 1.2 grams of carbohydrates, 0.3 grams of protein, and 0.3 grams of fat.
The micronutrients contained in the pepper are irrelevant simply because the amount of spices consumed is likely to be small. But if you consume one full teaspoon of pepper, you will get 56.6 mcg of vitamin A, or about 6.2% of the daily value.
You will also get 0.67 mg of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), or 4.5% of the daily value. Paprika also contains about 0.05 mg of vitamin B6, or 2.8% of the daily value, and 0.49 mg of iron, or 2.8% of the daily value. Pepper minerals also include riboflavin (0.03 mg or 2.3% daily value) and niacin (0.03 mg or 1.4% daily value).
Selection, preparation and storage
There are three different varieties of paprika. Choose the variety that best suits you, based on your culinary and taste preferences.
* Regular paprika. This variety, sometimes called "sweet paprika" or traditional paprika, has a milder taste and sweet notes. It is often made from chili peppers from California, Hungary, or South America. This is the kind of paprika you're most likely to find in the spice department at your local supermarket. This is the kind that is usually used to decorate dishes.
* Hungarian paprika. This variety, sometimes referred to as "hot paprika", has a sharper, sweeter, and more pungent taste and is often considered a top-notch spice. It is used in traditional Hungarian dishes, such as goulash. In this type of paprika, there are eight varieties of pepper, each with its own degree of heating and taste profile.
* Spanish paprika. Also called " pimentón "or" smoked paprika", it is a smoky variety of paprika made from pepper dried over an oak fire. It can be of different degrees of heating, from moderate to very large (respectively, very sharp).
Store the pepper in the same way as all dried spices. You can store it in an airtight container away from heat and light sources. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Ground pepper can be stored for two to three years, but such long-term storage of spices can affect the nutrients and taste.
Sprinkle the food with paprika if you need a little extra color, warmth, or a hint of smoke. Paprika can also be used in rubbing meat and seafood, or in spice mixes that are added to nuts or other snacks. Sprinkle the French fries with paprika to give them a touch of spice, or add it to the fried vegetables. You can add paprika to creamy soups to add color and sweetness. Some people even add pepper to smoothies or add it to warm, spicy drinks.
Possible side effects
Paprika is safe if you use it in moderation, which is necessary for cooking. However, in some people, spices can cause allergic or non-allergic reactions. There are several published reports of pepper allergy, and some researchers even refer to pepper as a hidden allergen.
Signs and symptoms of a non-allergic reaction include a skin rash, itchy mouth, or cough from inhalation. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis (in severe reactions). If you have a pepper allergy or experience such symptoms after eating pepper products, talk to your doctor to get personalized advice.
General questions
What is the best pepper substitute?
The best pepper substitute depends on where you want to add it, and on the flavor you need. If you are preparing a spicy dish, try using a different type of dried chili pepper, such as ground cayenne pepper, red chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes. If you want a smoke flavor, try the chipotle spice.
What is paprika oil?
Paprika oil is a beautiful oil of bright red or red-brown color, which can be used as a side dish or for frying products. It is used in some Hungarian dishes. You can buy pepper oil in many supermarkets or make it at home.
How to make paprika oil yourself?
To make your own paprika oil, simply mix the high-quality oil and your favorite paprika spice blend. You can use olive oil or another type of oil, such as sunflower oil. Just heat about half a cup of oil on the stove over low heat (being careful not to increase the heat too much). Then add about two teaspoons of pepper and leave for 10 minutes. Finally, strain using a coffee filter or cheesecloth. Store it in an airtight container away from heat and light sources.
